National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, 2003
A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

Prostate cancer is the second most common form of cancer among men
in the United States. This year alone, it is estimated that more than
220,000 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed and that nearly
29,000 men will die from this disease. During National Prostate Cancer
Awareness Month, we seek to increase understanding about the risk
factors of prostate cancer, the importance of a healthy lifestyle, and
the benefits of detecting the disease in its earliest stages, when it
is most treatable.

Although the exact cause of prostate cancer is unknown, several
factors have been found to increase the risk of developing this
disease. Men aged 65 years or older make up about 70 percent of all
diagnosed prostate cancer cases. In addition, a man's risk of
developing prostate cancer doubles if a father or brother has been
diagnosed with the disease.

Making healthy choices is critical to prevent prostate cancer and
many other diseases. Research suggests that some men may be able to
reduce their risk of prostate cancer by eating healthy foods and
exercising on a regular basis.

Early detection is important in successfully treating prostate
cancer. Preventative screenings can reveal a man's current health
status and identify whether he needs to adjust his diet or behavior. I
urge men, particularly those over 50, to learn more about the disease
and to talk to their doctors about when to start preventative
screening. Healthcare providers can advise men as to which tests are
most appropriate. Through early detection and treatment, we can reduce
the number of deaths caused by prostate cancer.

Today, our Nation is on the leading edge of new discoveries. As we
continue to make advancements in medicine, my Administration remains
committed to learning the causes of prostate cancer and finding a
cure. My fiscal year 2004 budget proposal includes more than $13
million for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to conduct,
support, and promote efforts that increase awareness of screening and
early detection, and more than $5.6 billion for cancer research at the
National Institutes of Health. Through my HealthierUS Initiative, my
Administration is also encouraging all citizens to lead healthier lives
by eating right, exercising, and taking advantage of preventative
screening. By working together, we will improve our ability to
prevent, treat, and cure prostate cancer.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States
of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution
and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 2003 as
National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. I call upon government
officials, businesses, communities, healthcare professionals,
educators, volunteers, and all people of the United States to reaffirm
our Nation's strong and continuing commitment to prevent, treat, and
cure prostate cancer.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of
September, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-eighth.